The New Nation - Internet Edition

Staff Reporter

Commerce and Education Adviser Dr Hossain Zillur Rahman said yesterday that the Government was considering the four-point demand put forward by the BNP led four-party alliance.

"The government would discuss the conditions and give a decision in time," he told the journalists after the inauguration of a workshop on ' autism' at the RAOWA Club in Mohakhali.

"We want all political parties taking part in the polls and the government has been trying its best to keep promises on schedule," he said.

Terming BNP and the alliance's stance 'positive' the Adviser said the nation is now relieved that BNP will participate in the election despite their press for the fulfilment of certain conditions.

Dr Zillur said the main aim of the government is to bring all political parties in the forthcoming parliamentary polls. The government will take all necessary initiatives in this regard.

He also said the time limit specified by BNP was not the main concern but with the right approach and a view to resolve the complications of all problems could be settled.

On the issue of changing the electoral schedule he said the government would make a decision after discussion.

It is mentioned that the four party alliance leaders Begum Khaleda Zia on Monday gave an ultimatum to the government to realise the demands within 48 hours as a precondition for contesting in the polls. The deadline of the ultimatum is going to be expired on today night.

The demands of the alliance include total withdrawal of the state of emergency immediately, holding of upazila elections after 30 days of general elections, amendments to Representation of People's Order (RPO) including the removal of its clause 91 (E) and changing the election schedule for ensure the voting rights of Hajj pilgrims.

Mentioning autism, Dr Zillur said it is no more a minor problem considering its gravity and number of sufferers.

"It is a big problem," he said adding that, " We have to have joint initiatives to bring the autistic children in the mainstream of economy".

He said the autism deserves more attention from all quarters including the government.